Family: Melastomataceae

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized outside native range (Hawaiʻi)
  
• Disturbance weed (Oʻahu Invasive Species Committee actively controls it)
  
• Congeneric weed (M. venosa is a noxious weed in Hawaii)
  
• Shade tolerant
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds (berries survive gut passage)
  
• Intentional dispersal by people (widely cultivated ornamental)
  
• Prolific seed production (many small berries with numerous seeds)

Low Risk Traits:

• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not toxic to animals or humans (used medicinally)
  
• No fire hazard (rainforest epiphyte)
  
• Narrow soil tolerance (requires loose, well‑drained soil)